Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
What you need to keep a Firemouth Cichlid
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pH
7–8.5
Temperature
23–28 °C
Where to buy
Compare prices from SA aquarium shops listing Firemouth Cichlid.
Avg. price
R195
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Firemouth Cichlid gets its name from the fiery red coloration on the underside of its jaw, which it flashes to intimidate rivals. They are a moderately aggressive cichlid that can be kept with other robust fish in a large tank with plenty of hiding spots. Their threat display is impressive, but they are often more bluff than bite.
Key traits
Care guide
Keeping Firemouth Cichlid healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
Size the aquarium to Firemouth Cichlid's adult size and activity level. Use robust décor and sight breaks so each fish can hold its own space.
Water parameters
Keep pH 7–8.5 and 23–28°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Omnivore. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Semi-aggressive. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose robust tankmates of similar size, and nothing small enough to be eaten. Add Firemouth Cichlid last so territories reset.
Breeding
Breeding success with Firemouth Cichlid depends on the line and water chemistry; ask your shop about proven pairs.
Settling this fish in?
Condition the tap water, seed the filter, test through the first weeks — most early losses trace back to one of those.
10% off your first order, no code, at checkout
Availability confirmed with the distributor before dispatch · free delivery over r750
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Market intelligence
Price trends and buyer demand — data only FishHub tracks.
Price tracking started 18 Jul 2026 — chart builds as listings are updated
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